Czech rider Jiri Friedl and Canadian Catherine Pendrel topped the podiums at the first Jelenia Gora Trophy, a UCI class two cross-country race in Poland organised by Olympic silver medallist Maja Wloszczowska.

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Other cycling stars in attendance included US national champion Mary McConnelough and former Olympic champion Miguel Martinez, as well as the cream of Polish, Czech and Russian riders.

The elite men’s race was dominated by Czechs Jiri Friedl and Filip Eberl, who started strongly and lost Martinez on the climbs. Friedl took first prize and a 1,000 euro cheque, while Eberl took second and Martinez third, with Adrian Brzozka in fourth spot as the best Polish rider.

In the women’s race, it was UCI number one Pendrell who quickly asserted her authority. Flying along the technical course at Paulinum Mountain, she took the advantage from the start despite a crash on the downhill section. Wlosczowska, Anna Szafraniec and McConnelough battled for second place, with the host eventually edging ahead.

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Pendrell, McConnelough and Martinez were so impressed with the race, course and spectators that they said the venue was worthy of being moved up to UCI class one status or even being given the chance to host a World Cup. The 2010 race is already being planned.